The Complete Four Seasons Collection 2023-24

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QUALITY ESCORTED HOLIDAYS BY TRAIN

THE COMPLETE FOUR SEASONS COLLECTION 2023/24

BOOK BEFORE 31 JULY 2023 AND SAVE £££s (see page 3 for details)

Just a selection of photographs sent to us by satisfied clients and enthusiastic tour managers from some of the lovely places we’ve visited...

Here in Leek we recently had one of the most anticipated social occasions in the town’s annual calendar… Scooterfest ‘Scooterfest’ is the day where our moorland town resonates to the ‘waspy’ sound as hundreds upon hundreds of heritage scooters and their owners come buzzing into town. The event saw townsfolk in their thousands joining the scooter owners, in celebrating a day of fun and nostalgia that brought the town to life, and no doubt generated tills ringing galore in the local shops and pubs. It brought home to me how important ‘being passionate’ about something is in enhancing our lives. Here at Railtrail Tours our passion is to provide you with the very best of holidays. The itinerary of which will, I suspect, contain attractions which you too are passionate about. It may be beautiful gardens or stunning scenery. Perhaps it is the nostalgia of steam trains or the architecture and history of Britain and Europe’s great towns and cities. But whatever the passion it is a vital ingredient to our lives.

Bellarine Railway

Glenfinnan Viaduct

Callanish Stones

Llangollen

Michael Portillo & Tour Group

Orkney

Isle of Harris

My passion is where Railtrail Tours originated over forty years ago, and my team and I still retain our passion to be the antithesis of the major tour operator and putting people before profit is at the very heart of our ethos. The most often asked question currently is… ‘Will our tour be cancelled because of a rail strike?’ As you may well know these disputes have been ongoing for a year now, and whilst we do not possess a crystal ball to be able to answer that question definitively, what we are immensely proud of is that despite the strikes less than one per cent of our scheduled tour departures have had to be cancelled! To achieve this, we have extended some tours, varied itineraries slightly of others, and sometimes absorbed substantial costs ourselves. At the end of the day, we have risen to the challenge with our passion and commitment to you and achieved our goal of ensuring you have been able to enjoy your much anticipated Railtrail Tour.

In the following pages we bring you up to date with our 2023 Autumn, Festive and Winter tours along with Spring 2024 that are now open for booking. Rest assured that if the past 12 months is anything to go by, we can confidently predict that you will not be disappointed. Finally, please remember all monies paid by you are fully protected in our Lloyds Bank trustee account which gives you total peace of mind that in the extremely unlikely event of our cancelling your tour your monies are secure and available for immediate refund. .

Urquhart & Loch Ness © Rosie Sharp

Laxey Wheel

Le Truddafou

Valley Heights, Warrimoo

Book before 31st July 2023 and save £££s In this brochure we invite you to save on new bookings made before 3 1 st Ju ly 2023 using the special voucher codes. All UK Tours – to receive a £25 discount simply quote 4SUK25 All Grand Tours – to receive a £50 discount simply quote 4SGT50 All European Tours – to receive a £50 discount simply quote 4SEU50 Better still, if you are an existing Railtrail client you may well have already accumulated ‘Railtrail Rewards’ Loyalty Points via our loyalty programme. We are delighted to advise that you can use your loyalty points in conjunction with these discounts. Our Automated Online Tour Booking System is OPEN 24/7

Dave Felstead Managing Director, Railtrail Tours Ltd

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

Start Date

Title

Duration

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Start Date

Title

Duration

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06/08/2023 12/08/2023 16/08/2023 17/08/2023 21/08/2023 29/08/2023 01/09/2023 02/09/2023 02/09/2023 03/09/2023 04/09/2023 05/09/2023 07/09/2023 07/09/2023 07/09/2023 10/09/2023 11/09/2023 11/09/2023 14/09/2023 14/09/2023 14/09/2023 16/09/2023 16/09/2023 18/09/2023 18/09/2023 20/09/2023 21/09/2023 21/09/2023 21/09/2023 22/09/2023 24/09/2023 25/09/2023 25/09/2023 26/09/2023 28/09/2023 28/09/2023 28/09/2023 03/10/2023

Floral Cheshire & Beyond The Big Five versus the Stoosbahn Hebridean Islands Discovery

5 8 8 5 9 5 8 8 7 5 6 5 5 5 8 5 8 5 5 8 5 9 9 5 5 5 4 8 5 5 5

20 - 21 62 - 63 54 - 55 64 - 65 56 - 57 66 - 67 70 - 71 22 - 23 60 - 61 12 - 13 26 - 27 24 - 25 28 - 29 30 - 31 32 - 33 34 - 35 54 - 55 38 - 39 10 - 11 36 - 37 72 -73 40 - 41 64 - 65 68 - 69 14 - 15 44 - 45 52 - 53 42 - 43 46 - 47 16 - 17 18 - 19 48 - 49 50 - 51 58 - 59 78 - 79 6 - 7 8 - 9 6 - 7

03/10/2023 07/10/2023 10/10/2023 17/10/2023 23/10/2023 23/11/2023 28/11/2023 01/12/2023 05/12/2023 20/12/2023 21/12/2023 23/12/2023 27/12/2023 30/12/2023 03/02/2024 08/02/2024 12/02/2024 13/02/2024 02/03/2024 05/03/2024 10/03/2024 12/03/2024 19/03/2024 04/04/2024 10/04/2024 11/04/2024 11/04/2024 16/04/2024 17/04/2024 22/04/2024 23/04/2024 24/04/2024 25/04/2024 25/04/2024 26/04/2024 27/04/2024 28/04/2024

Austrian Steam Adventure Great German Rail Ale Trail

8 9 5 5 4 4 8 4 5 8 8 5 4 4 8 7 7 5 8 5 7 5 5 9 6 5 5 5 6 4 8 6 5 5 9 8

74 - 75 76 - 77 80 - 81 78 - 79 82 - 83 84 - 85 92 - 93 86 - 87 88 - 89 90 - 91 94 - 95 96 - 97 98 - 99

Picturesque Pitlochry & The Enchanted Forest

Heart of Wales Steam & the Brecon Beacons

Golden Highlander Highland Rail Voyager Yuletide Yorkshire

Swiss Mountain Steam

Welsh Whisky, Mines, Mint & Steam

Queen of Scots

Festive Saxony & Winter Steam Explorer Ironbridge Victorian Christmas & Steam Festive Highlands More Inclusive Spectacular Scotland at Christmas Swiss Christmas Snow Train Adventure Harrogate Christmas Celebration Twixmas in Festive Fort William Harrogate New Year Celebration White Pass Swiss Winter Snow Train Adventure Exclusive Inverness & Treasures of the Highlands White Pass Swiss Winter Snow Train Adventure Harz Mountains Winter Wonderland Scottish Trilogy - Tayside & Stirling Explorer Springtime Highlander Queen of Scots & Edinburgh Amsterdam,Tulips, Cheese & Steam Springtime Gardens of Cornwall Scottish Steam, Malt & Ale Trail Steam & Sail in the Elegant English Riviera Scotland’s Far North, Shetland & Orkney Springtime Highlander Winter Steam Extravaganza Harz Mountains Winter Wonderland

Switzerland’s Steam-powered Six Harz Mountains Steam - the jewel of Germany Canals, Steam & Historic Chester

Wonderful Wales

Stirling Cities of Scotland by Rail Treasures of the Peak District

Grand Tour by Rail - Land’s End to John O’Groats

100 - 101 102 -103 104 -105 106 - 107 108 - 109 102 - 103 110 - 111 106 - 107 112 - 113 110 - 111 114 - 115 116 - 117 118 – 119 120 - 121 122 - 123 126 - 127 124 - 125 128 - 129 116 - 117 118 - 119 130 - 131 132 - 133 134 - 135 136 - 137

Shipshape & Bristol Fashion!

Yorkshire Gold - Steam, Coast & Country Forest of Dean Steam & the Wye Valley Roses Battle By Steam-Settle & Carlisle Line Heart of Wales Steam & the Brecon Beacons North Norfolk Coast, the Broads & Steam Grand Tour by Rail - Six Wonders of the Waterways Grand Tour by Rail - The Transpyrenean Hebridean Odyssey

10 14

Dorset Coast & Isle of Wight Steam

Swiss Mountain Steam

Swiss Glacier Express and the Bernina Scottish Steam, Malt & Ale Trail The Cream of Cornish Coasts & Country Grand Tour by Rail - Derry To Kerry

12 10

Grand Tour by Rail - Coastal Nostalgia in the Sunny South Step Back in Tyne - Discover the North East

Highland Adventure Royal Deeside Explorer

Highland Adventure Hebridean Islands Discovery Romantic Highlander

Amsterdam,Tulips, Cheese & Steam Springtime Gardens of Cornwall

Isle of Man Explorer

Nostalgic Lakeland Railways & Cumbria

Grand Tour by Rail - Coastal Nostalgia in the Sunny South

Isle of Man Explorer

Great German Rail Ale Trail

Grand Tour by Rail - Wales Coast to Coast

Yorkshire Gold - Steam, Coast & Country

Golden Highlander

4 Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW 4

Call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

H ebridean I slands D iscovery

Escape from it all as you island hop from Skye to Uist and from Harris to Lewis on this magical Railtrail tour of the Hebridean islands. Every day is different as each sublime, rugged and breathtaking landscape unfolds before you. Arrive in style on the stunning West Highland line and finish the tour by passing through the magnificent Cairngorms.

8 DAYS

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Cruise betwixt the Isles amidst dream-like seascapes; look out for whales, dolphins & sea eagles ★ Both branches of the West Highland Railway journey – one of the best in the world ★ The romantic ‘rail route to the Isles’ ★ Visit the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland ★ Naturalist’s paradise of birds & wildlife ★ Discover Hebrides ancient history spanning back 5000 years ★ Uists’ white shell beaches & freshwater lochs ★ Sample the traditional island lifestyle ★ Magnificent Highlands scenery, Ullapool to Inverness and through the Cairngorms to Stirling Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ Dinner every evening plus one lunch ★ Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ Hotel Porterage DAY 1 We spend our first night in Glasgow at the contemporary Radisson Blu Hotel ideally located close to the central railway station. Spend time admiring Glasgow’s Charles Rennie Mackintosh architecture or explore the city using the ‘Clockwork Orange’ Glasgow’s underground system before our first dinner together this evening. (D)

DEPARTS Wednesday 16 August 2023 Monday 25 September 2023

Fares From £1679

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST £1985 £2005 £2035 £2055 £2069 £1965 £1929 £1875 £1829 £1889 £1989 £1919 £1815

STANDARD

London: Depart Euston, Return King’s Cross

£1845 £1855 £1879 £1885 £1899 £1835 £1809 £1795 £1769 £1779 £1849 £1809 £1759 £1699

Greater London South of England East Anglia South West Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales Heart of England

DAY 5 Today we ctravel to the Isle of Harris and Lewis, a rugged landscape of moorland, deep-sea lochs, mountains, and a proud history. With an expert local guide, we explore Harris and enjoy lunch in a local hotel before continuing northwards to Lewis and the capital Stornoway to our hotel for two nights. (B,L,D) DAY 6 We experience the dramatic landscape of Lewis on a full day tour in the company of our island guide, including the impressive standing stones of Callanish , a traditional thatched blackhouse settlement, and the ancient broch at Carloway. (B,D) DAY 7 This morning we depart the Hebrides, crossing to Ullapool for the spectacular journey through to Inverness. We have a little free time in Invernes s before boarding our train to Stirling, journeying through the glorious Cairngorms . We stay at the Highland Hotel for one night, close to the magnificent Stirling Castle from which there are great views over to the Wallace Monument. (B,D) DAY 8 We bid farewell to Stirling as we make our way homeward. (B)

Scotland

DAY 2 This morning we journey north on the stunning West Highland Line , admiring the watery landscapes of the Firth of Clyde and Gareloch. With scenery becoming ever more dramatic, we trundle beside Loch Long and skirt the ‘bonnie banks’ of Loch Lomond before climbing into the western Highlands. At Crianlarich, we continue northwards, over Rannoch Moor and across ‘Harry Potter’ famed Glenfinnan Viaduct where the Highlander Monument stands before reaching Mallaig on the Atlantic coastline. Stroll around this small town and harbour before boarding our ferry to the Isle of Skye and then transferring onwards to our hotel for the next two nights. (B,D) DAY 3 Today we take a scenic tour of the Isle of Skye , the largest island in the Inner Hebrides. We travel to the north west of the island with views over the famous Cuillin Hills to visit Dunvegan Castle , the oldest continuously inhabited

castle in Scotland. In the afternoon we journey back south to the island’s capital Portree and enjoy free time to explore the pretty harbour. (B,D) DAY 4 We travel the shores of Loch Snizort to Uig for our ferry cruise to North Uist. Our journey onward to Benbecula takes us past numerous lochans and beautiful beaches before we arrive at our hotel the Dark Island, for a relaxing evening in a tranquil location. (B,D)

Join & Leave at Hotels

£20 tour discount for holders of National Rail cards Single Room Supplement £360 AUGUST DEPARTURE SUPPLEMENT £140

*Please Note: Some local and regional train services are Standard Class seating only and First Class ticket holders will travel in standard class accommodation for these sections of their journey. 7 nights’ bed, breakfast & Table d’hôte evening meal plus one lunch Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach travel, with transfers as described All excursions and admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Hotel porterage HOTELS • Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow • Kings Arms Hotel, Kyleakin • Dark Island Hotel, Benbecula • Caberfeidh Hotel (August) , Caladh Inn (September) Stornoway • Stirling Highland Hotel, Stirling For further details of our Hebridean Islands Discovery hotels, please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

Q ueen of S cots

A truly magical circular tour of the Highlands of Scotland, also taking in the magnificent Isles of Mull and Iona, along with spectacular rail journeys, sensational scenery, and steam train nostalgia.

8 DAYS

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Journey over the beautiful West Highland Line to Oban ★ Take an original ‘Great Rail Journey of the World’ on the spectacular Kyle of Lochalsh Line ★ Sensational train journey to Mallaig on The Jacobite steam train across the Glenfinnan Viaduct ★ Explore Oban and Inverness ★ Loch Katrine Cruise ★ Dramatic Ballindalloch Castle & Gardens ★ Cruise to the Isles of Mull and Iona ★ Tour the Great Glen & Loch Ness ★ Strathspey Railway steam nostalgia ★ Whisky distillery tour, with a wee dram Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ Dinner every evening plus one light lunch ★ Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ Hotel Porterage DAY 1 For those on our rail inclusive package, we travel by train to Glasgow where we meet the Tour Manager before our first great rail journey along the West Highland Line along the shores of the Clyde and past Loch Lomond to Crianlarich where our hotel, for three nights is the Crianlarich Hotel, just a short walk from the train station. (D) DAY 2 A day of lochs, glens and islands awaits

DEPARTS

Friday 1 September 2023

Fares From £1579

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST £1,985 £2015 £2059 £2069 £2179 £1999 £1939 £1869 £1805 £1885 £2039 £1959 £1689

STANDARD

London

£1,789 £1805 £1839 £1835 £1905 £1805 £1779 £1745 £1709 £1745 £1835 £1785 £1639 £1589

series. As the train nears its destination, you are rewarded with dream-like vistas across the loch to the Cullin Hills on the Isle of Skye. Upon arrival into Lochalsh, we make our way to the Lochalsh Hotel for a light lunch, taking in the views, before making the return journey. (B,L,D) DAY 6 A wonderful circular excursion, commencing with a steam train ride on the Strathspey Railway before continuing by coach to Ballindalloch Castle & Gardens a wonderful Highland Estate.We then re-board our coach to complete the circle through the magnificent Highland scenery back to Inverness. (B,D). DAY 7 A free day to enjoy at leisure in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands . You may wish to take a dolphin cruise on the Moray Firth, or a full day excursion to experience the train journey along the F ar North Line through wild Caithness . (B,D) DAY 8 Our grand circular tour concludes as we bid farewell to Inverness and if

Greater London South of England East Anglia South West Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales Heart of England

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotels

today as we take our second great railway journey on the western branch of the West Highland Line to Oban. From here we cruise to the Isle of Mull and onto Iona where there is time to view Iona’s famous abbey. Back in Oban, we have a bit of free time before making the rail journey back to our hotel in Crianlarich. (B,D) DAY 3 Today we explore the Trossachs National Park where we start the day with a cruise on Loch Katrine on board cruise boat ‘Lady of the Lake’. When we are back on dry land, we head to a local distillery for a tour and tasting of Scotland’s biggest export – Whisky . (B,D) DAY 4 The famous ‘Harry Potter’ Jacobite steam train * awaits today. We transfer to Fort William before boarding the Jacobite for a scenic journey across the Glenfinnan Viaduct and past the Bonnie Prince Charlie’s monument and Loch Shiel before bursting out onto

the Atlantic coastline of golden white sands with distant views of Rhum and Eigg. Enjoy time in Mallaig with views across the sea to Skye. Returning on the Jacobite to Fort William, we board our private coach to Inverness via the Great Glen and Loch Ness to our hotel for four nights, The Palace at Inverness. (B,D) DAY 5 Today we travel on one of the world’s finest coast to coast railway journeys to the Kyle of Lochalsh , immortalised in Sir Michael Palin’s original “ Great Railway Journeys of the World ” TV

£10 tour discount for holders of National Rail cards Single Room Supplement £350

HOTELS Crianlarich Hotel, Crianlarich travelling by train return homeward over the Cairngorm Mountains to Edinburgh and the South. (B)

*In the unlikely event of the steam train being unavailable we reserve the right to substitute a diesel train or undertake the journey by road coach.

Set in the Scottish Highlands, the Crianlarich Hotel is a 3 star family run hotel with an award winning restaurant and cosy pub.There is free Wi-Fi at the hotel and the comfortable en-suite bedrooms are equipped with TV and tea & coffee making facilities. Palace Hotel & Spa, Inverness Overlooking the River Ness, just short stroll from the city centre, this 4 star hotel has well-appointed bedrooms with hospitality tray, radio, TV and free Wi-Fi. The hotel offers a stylish bar and restaurant, relaxing lounge and superb newly refurbished leisure club with indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and gymnasium.

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

H ebridean O dyssey

Treat yourself to a Railtrail tour offering the ultimate island hopping experience in the Outer Hebrides and visiting an impressive eight islands. Discover an area of unspoilt natural beauty offering spectacular scenery, impressive mountain ranges and miles of golden beaches.

8 DAYS

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Travel the glorious West Highland Line - “Railroad to the Isles” ★ Take a relaxing cruise on Loch Linnhe ★ Visit picture perfect Portree, the Capital of the Isle of Skye ★ Discover the Isle of Barra, considered by many to be the most beautiful little island in Britain ★ Stroll along unspoilt, white sandy beaches ★ See the beautiful Eriskay Ponies on the Isle of Eriskay ★ Glimpse whales, dolphins & sea eagles as you cruise between outstanding island seascapes ★ Discover a birdswatchers’ paradise and view amazing island wildlife ★ Learn about the Hebrides unique and fascinating history spanning back 5000 years ★ Explore the Isle of Lewis and Isle of Harris with expert local guides ★ Journey through the Cairngorms enjoying wonderful Highland scenery Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ Dinner every evening plus one light lunch ★ Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager DAY 1 We arrive in Stirling and check into the Stirling Highland Hotel, an attractive, historic building and formerly the city’s school. Why not explore the Old Town and take in the view from the castle before dinner? (D)

DEPARTS

Thursday 14 September 2023

Fares From £1929

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST £2235 £2255 £2285 £2305 £2319 £2219 £2179 £2125 £2079 £2139 £2239 £2169 £2065

STANDARD

London: Depart Euston, Return King’s Cross

£2095 £2105 £2129 £2135 £2149 £2085 £2059 £2045 £2019 £2029 £2099 £2059 £2009 £1949

Greater London South of England East Anglia South West Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales Heart of England

west coast is a continuous sandy beach while the east is dominated by mountainous peaks. We continue via a further causeway to the Isle of Eriskay . Eriskay is famous for the Eriskay Ponies and is also the real ‘Whisky Galore’ island. It was just off Eriskay, that the S.S. Politician ran aground in 1941 with 20,000 cases of whisky aboard. The locals managed to save several hundred cases before the ship sank, providing them with a good supply of their ‘Water of Life’. From here, enjoy the short ferry crossing to the Isle of Barra which is considered by many to be the most beautiful little island in Britain. Its tranquil beaches, distinctive culture, where Gaelic is widely spoken, and an ancient history make any visit to Barra a memorable one. Time allowing and tide permitting, we can venture across the causeway to stunning Vatersay, the most southerly inhabited island in the Outer Hebrides.(B,D) DAY 6 We depart the Outer Hebrides early morning and have breakfast on board our ferry from Lochmaddy to Uig on the Isle of Skye , the largest island in the Inner Hebrides.We visit the capital Portree where we enjoy free time for lunch before we continue over the famous Cuillin Hills via Broadford to Armadale where we board our mid-afternoon ferry to Mallaig. We continue our journey by rail on the West Highland Line across ‘Harry Potter’ famed Glenfinnan Viaduct where the Highlander Monument stands before reaching Fort William and our hotel, the Alexandra. (B,D) DAY 7 This morning we enjoy a relaxing cruise on Loch Linnhe – a lovely sea loch - looking out for seals and porpoises, diving birds and perhaps a golden eagle. Following our cruise, we board our train for the glorious journey past lochs, through forests and over

Scotland

local guide to explore the island of Harris with its rugged landscape of moorland, deep sea lochs, mountains, and a proud history. We pass numerous unspoilt, white sandy beaches and some of the most breathtakingly beautiful scenery in the Western Isles before continuing our onward journey to North Uist , via the Benbecula causeway. North Uist is a relatively flat island covered with peat bogs, low hills and lochans. More than half the land is covered by water, making North Uist a birdwatchers’ paradise. Our journey to Benbecula takes us past numerous lochans and beautiful beaches before we arrive at the Dark Island Hotel, our base for the next two nights. (B,L,D) DAY 5 Todays’ island hopping begins by taking the causeway across to S outh Uist , where the

DAY 2 This morning we bride the wonderfully picturesque Highland Line and journey through Perth, Pitlochry and over Cairngorm Mountains to Inverness . From Inverness we continue by private coach to Ullapool and board our afternoon ferry to the Isle of Lewis .We arrive early evening in Stornoway , the capital of Lewis we transfer to our hotel for the next two nights, at the Caberfeidh Today we explore Lewis , this the most northerly island of the Hebrides and the largest island of the Outer Hebrides. Lewis has a history that goes back thousands of years and the ancient stone circles and standing stones can be found everywhere. We learn about the dramatic landscape of Lewis on a full day tour in the company of our island guide, including the impressive standing stones of Callanish , a traditional thatched blackhouse settlement, and the ancient broch at Carloway , one of Scotland’s best preserved defensive structures dating back 2,000 years. (B,D) DAY 4 This morning we depart our hotel and travel southwards to Harris . A packed lunch is provided today, and we meet with an expert Hotel. (B,D) DAY 3

Join & Leave at Hotels

£20 tour discount for holders of National Rail cards Single Room Supplement £270

hotel, the Jurys Inn before our last dinner together this evening. (B,D) DAY 8 We bid farewell to Glasgow as we make our way homeward. (B)

mountain and moors on the spectacularly scenic West Highland Line from Fort William to Glasgow. On arrival in Glasgow , we transfer to the short distance to our

HOTELS • Stirling Highland Hotel, Stirling • Caberfeidh Hotel, Stornoway • Dark Island Hotel, Benbecula • Alexandra Hotel, Fort William • Jurys Inn, Glasgow For further details of our Hebridean Odyssey hotels, please visit our website www.railtrail.co.uk

10 Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online NOW 10

S tirling C ities of S cotland by R ail

NEW TOUR

5 DAYS

Discover four delightful and diverse Scottish cities on our new all rail holiday to Stirling, Perth, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. The tour visits fascinating attractions in each city including the Riverside Transport Museum, Stirling Castle, Black Watch Museum, and Royal Yacht Britannia.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Spend time in historic Stirling and explore the castle and Old Town ★ Enjoy free time to explore Glasgow including hop-on, hop-off bus ★ Discover the Riverside Transport Museum ★ Stroll around the ‘Fair City’ of Perth, on the banks of the River Tay ★ Learn about the Scotland’s elite Black Watch regiment on a guided tour ★ Free time to explore Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh including hop-on, hop-off bus ★ Step on board the Royal Yacht Britannia Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ Dinner every evening ★ Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ Hotel Porterage DAY 1 We arrive in Stirling and transfer to our hotel for four nights, the Stirling Highland Hotel, just a short distance from the station and close to the castle.

DEPARTS

Tuesday 5 September 2023

Fares From £659

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST £905 £925 £959 £979 £1049 £959 £935 £859 £809 £885 £975 £925 N/A

STANDARD

London: King’s Cross Greater London South of England East Anglia South West Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales Heart of England

£799 £809 £825 £839 £879 £825 £805 £775 £749 £765 £835 £795 £725 £679

Glasgow’s many attractions and admire the Charles Rennie Mackintosh architecture using our hop-on, hop-off bus ticket before we return to Stirling by rail. (B,D) DAY 3 After breakfast we explore our base, the city of Stirling and visit one of Scotland’s largest castles. During our visit to Stirling Castle , we can see the Great Hall, Chapel Royal, Regimental Museum, Great Kitchens, and Stirling Tapestries. In the afternoon we travel by train to the ‘Fair City’ of Perth and enjoy a guided highlights tour of the Black Watch Museum . The museum tells the story of Scotland’s famous elite military regiment with a unique collection of two and half centuries of artefacts. Following our fascinating visit to Perth we return by rail to Stirling. (B,D) DAY 4 Our rail excursion this morning takes us to Edinburgh , Scotland’s proud capital city. We transfer by hop-on, hop-off bus to the Royal Yacht Britannia , voted Scotland’s best visitor attraction for the past 13 years. The Royal Yacht served the Royal Family for over 44 years and travelled over one million nautical miles on 968 state visits, hosting world leaders such as Sir Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Ronald Reagan, and

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotels

£20 tour discount for holders of National Rail cards Single Room Supplement £190

that Glasgow has played in shipbuilding, train manufacturing and engineering. The museum offers an incredible of array of objects including vintage cars, a locomotive, tram, and the UK’s only floating Clyde-built tall ship. We can even walk down a recreated cobbled Glasgow street with shops dating from 1895 to the 1980s. Following our visit, we enjoy free time to explore

Tonight, we enjoy our first evening meal together. (D) DAY 2 This morning we travel by train to Glasgow and board our hop-on hop off bus to the Riverside Transport Museum . The multi-award winning museum is located on the banks of the River Clyde reflects the important role

architecture of the Royal Mile before returning to our hotel by rail. (B,D) DAY 5 We bid farewell to Stirling as we make our way homeward. (B)

Rajiv Gandhi. Following our fascinating visit, we enjoy free time in Edinburgh to discover the capital’s numerous attractions and take in the glorious

HOTEL Stirling Highland Hotel, Stirling

Just a short walk from Stirling Castle, is the historic 4-star Highland Hotel. The hotel’s Scholars restaurant offers quality locally sourced food, and the comfortable bar is the perfect place to enjoy a wee dram! The leisure club, including swimming pool is a great place to relax. Built in the 19th century as the city’s High School, this characterful building still houses a working observatory in its roof.

12 12

Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

S cottish S team , M alt & A le T rail

5 DAYS

Build up a head of steam, uncovering Scotland’s heritage from a different angle. Enjoy the Bo’ness & Kinneil Steam Railway, soar above the canals by boat on the remarkable Falkirk Wheel, cruise Loch Katrine and steam through the Highlands on the Strathspey Railway, this great railway holiday also features The Kelpies, a distillery tour and a brewery visit.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Enjoy a guided tour of the world’s largest equine sculptures ‘The Kelpies’ ★ Experience the Bo’ness & Kinneil Steam Railway ★ Soar 35 metres into the air by boat at the engineering masterpiece Falkirk Wheel ★ Delight in a Glenturret whisky distillery tour and tasting ★ Steam on the former Highland Railway with the Strathspey Steam Railway ★ Marvel at the vistas as we travel by train to Aviemore ★ Take a cruise on Loch Katrine aboard the ‘Lady of the Lake’ ★ Indulge in a tasting at the Bridge of Allan Brewery ★ Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ Dinner every evening ★ Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ Hotel Porterage DAY 1 Arrive in Perth and make your way to our hotel for four nights, the Salutation Hotel. Tonight, we enjoy our first evening meal together. (D)

DEPARTS

Thursday 21 September 2023

Fares From £649

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST £895 £905 £985 £959 £1029 £925 £905 £855 £805 £879 £985 £919 £759

STANDARD

London: King’s Cross Greater London South of England East Anglia South West Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales Heart of England

£785 £789 £829 £819 £859 £785 £789 £765 £739 £765 £829 £789 £699 £659

Strathspey Steam Railway. Back in Aviemore, we enjoy free time before we return to Perth by rail. (B,D) DAY 4 This morning we travel by private coach to Bo’ness & Kinneil Steam Railway for a return ride along the line. Following our visit, to travel to The Kelpies , here we enjoy a brief tour of the world’s largest equine sculptures and get to go inside to marvel at the complexity and engineering that created these fantastic pieces of art. We reboard our coach for the short transfer to the nearby Falkirk Wheel. The Forth & Clyde Canal was originally built to link sea to sea across Scotland’s central belt, however, not long after its construction it was usurped by the railways. After falling into disrepair, volunteers began restoring the canal to its former glory with similar vigour to the pioneers of railway preservation. The Falkirk Wheel is the final piece in the jigsaw, an incredible feat of engineering and design. Our boat is lifted 35 metres by the world’s only rotating boat lift , before sailing seamlessly onto the Union Canal. We

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotels

£10 tour discount for holders of National Rail cards Single Room Supplement £85

DAY 3 One of Scotland’s great rail journeys awaits today as we head north into the Cairngorms , passing dense forests and wild moors, flanked by the Grampians, on our way to the mountain resort of Aviemore . Here we enjoy a return steam excursion from Aviemore to Broomhill on the preserved section of the Highland Line known as the

DAY 2 Today we head northwards to explore the beautiful Trossach Range by coach, enjoying a cruise on Loch Katrine on board the ‘Lady of the Lake’. We complete the day with a tour of the Glenturret Distillery, Scotland’s oldest working distillery where we get to sample a superb single malt Scotch whisky. (B,D)

we enjoy a taste of their wonderful ales. (B,D) DAY 5 Our hotel in Perth bids “Haste ye back,” as we make our way home. (B)

finish our day at the Bridge of Allan Brewery where we are joined by one of their guides for a presentation of the brewery and brewing process, before

HOTEL Salutation Hotel

Situated in the heart of the historic City of Perth, the 3 star Salutation is the oldest established hotel in Scotland, having welcomed guests through its doors since 1699, including Bonnie Prince Charlie who stayed here in 1745. Meals are served in the elegant Adam Restaurant with its original barrel vaulted ceiling and the cosy Reids Bar offers a large selection of malt whiskies.

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Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

H ighland A dventure

The Highlands of Scotland are a joy to behold, and our adventure filled short break combines the glorious West Highland rail route with the fabulous ‘Harry Potter’ Jacobite steam train, steaming over Glenfinnan Viaduct to Mallaig, plus a relaxing Loch Linnhe cruise, a scenic mountain gondola and a ‘wee dram’ at the Ben Nevis Distillery!

4 DAYS

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ A magical Scottish rail adventure ★ Travel the glorious West Highland Line - “Railroad to the Isles” ★ Cruise Loch Linnhe, relaxing in search of seals and porpoise ★ Take the famous ‘Harry Potter’ steam train journey aboard the “Jacobite” ★ Soar to the heavens - experience stunning views on the Ben Nevis range by cable car ★ Enjoy a ‘wee dram’ at Ben Nevis Distillery: ‘Slàinte Mhath’ – good health! Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ Dinner every evening in your hotel ★ Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ Hotel Porterage DAY 1 For customers travelling with the Railtrail ‘rail inclusive’ package, we meet in Glasgow, where we take an early evening meal before boarding our train

DEPARTS

Monday 25 September 2023

Fares From £599

FARES

FARE REGION London: Euston Greater London South of England East Anglia South West Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales Heart of England

FIRST £1005 £1019 £1059 £1059 £1045 £909 £895 £835 £805 £855 £945 £909 N/A

STANDARD

£809 £825 £849 £849 £849 £759 £759 £729 £715 £725 £785 £769 £739 £609

whisky distillery , concluding with a wee dram.We then soar skyward in a Nevis Range Gondola on our adventure to experience stunning panoramic views of the Highlands and Ben Nevis itself. (B,D) DAY 3 Today our Railtrail adventure continues aboard the Jacobite steam train * to Mallaig, journeying over the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct , capturing the views of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s monument, Loch Shiel and Loch Eilt, before the line turns north with astonishing vistas to the Atlantic coastline of golden white sands. There is time to explore the harbour town of Mallaig , with its majestic views across to the Isle of Skye, before we return to Fort William on our great railway journey of dramatic and captivating scenes. (B,D)

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotels

£10 tour discount for holders of National Rail cards Single Room Supplement £85

for the glorious journey past lochs, through forests and over mountains and moors that is the spectacularly scenic West Highland Line to Fort William. Customers booking the Tour Base fare join at the Alexandra hotel, Fort William and dine independently before meeting the tour group upon their arrival later this evening. (D)

DAY 2 We cruise Loch Linnhe – a lovely sea loch - looking out for seals and porpoises, diving birds and perhaps a golden eagle. Upon our return to Fort William , we have time for lunch and to wander the shops, before we take our tour of the fascinating Ben Nevis

finally along the shores of the Clyde as we approach Glasgow for homeward trains. (B) *In the unlikely event of the steam train being unavailable we reserve the right to substitute a diesel train or undertake the journey by road coach.

DAY 4 The beautiful rail journey from Fort William back to Glasgow concludes our holiday for those returning by rail, passing across remote moors and through the glens to Loch Lomond and

HOTEL Alexandra Hotel, Fort William

Situated in the heart of Fort William, close by the railway station this traditional 3 star Victorian hotel offers comfortable bedrooms with TV and radio, telephone, and hospitality tray. The hotel has a homely bar with open fire and the spacious restaurant offers locally sourced dishes.

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Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

R omantic H ighlander

A delightful Railtrail tour inspired by the original BBC “Great Railway Journeys of the World” TV series which saw Sir Michael Palin travelling through the spectacular Scottish Highlands to the Kyle of Lochalsh. Our popular Romantic Highlander tour is based at one of Railtrail’s best loved hotels and includes the fabulous Jacobite steam train.

5 DAYS

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Sir Michael Palin’s ‘Great Railway Journey’ to the Kyle of Lochalsh ★ Take the Jacobite steam train on the ‘West Highland Line’ between Fort William and Mallaig ★ Cross the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct, of Harry Potter movie fame ★ Spectacular mountain scenery of the Highland Line to Inverness ★ Nostalgic steam train ride on the Strathspey Railway ★ Enjoy a light lunch overlooking the Isle of Skye ★ Stay in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands ★ Superb spa hotel leisure facilities Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ Dinner each evening, plus light refreshments on the Strathspey Railway and 1 light lunch ★ Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ Hotel Porterage DAY 1 For those on our rail inclusive package the wonderfully picturesque Highland Line takes you through Perth, Pitlochry and over Cairngorm Mountains to Inverness and our hotel on the banks of the River Ness. (D) DAY 2 Travelling through the Great Glen to Fort William we journey on one of Scotland’s most scenic railway journeys as we join the Jacobite SteamTrain* on the West Highland Line between Fort

DEPARTS Tuesday 26 September 2023

Fares From £999

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST £1275 £1295 £1329 £1345 £1445 £1329 £1289 £1235 £1185 £1255 £1379 £1329 £1125

STANDARD

London: Kings Cross Greater London South of England East Anglia South West Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales Heart of England

£1149 £1159 £1179 £1189 £1249 £1179 £1155 £1135 £1105 £1125 £1209 £1169 £1075 £1009

with refreshments served en route as we steam along the whole length of the line from Aviemore to Broomhill (renowned as Glenbogle in the old TV series ‘Monarch of the Glen’).When we arrive back in Aviemore we board our return train and travel through stunning Highland scenery as we complete our journey back to Inverness. (B,LR,D) DAY 4 After breakfast we take the wonderful Kyle Line train, Scotland’s original “Great Railway Journey of the World”, simply one of the world’s finest coast to coast rail adventures through stunning scenery and across the great mountain plateau. Look out for wild deer, eagles, and the palm trees of Plockton village, before dramatic sea vistas are revealed as we arrive at Kyle of Lochalsh . Here we enjoy a light lunch at Kyle Hotel and admire the superb views across to the Isle of Skye, just as Sir Michael Palin did before retracing our steps to Inverness. (B,L,D)

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotels

arriving at Mallaig overlooking the Isle of Skye. We have a short break for sightseeing in Mallaig before journeying back to Fort William and onto Inverness in time for dinner. (B,D) DAY 3 This morning we travel by train to Cairngorms National Park and the mountain resort of Aviemore. Here we enjoy a wonderful whiff of nostalgia on the Strathspey Steam Railway

William and Mallaig.The train line takes us over the impressive Glennfinnan Viaduct , capturing the views of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s monument standing proudly at the head of Loch Shiel. The viaduct is now famous for its association with the Harry Potter movies. Circumnavigating Loch Eilt with the small island home to the remnant of the original Caledonian Forest the steam train continues with astonishing vistas of the Atlantic coastline before

£10 tour discount for holders of National Rail cards Single Room Supplement £265

*Please Note: Some local and regional train services are Standard Class seating only and First Class ticket holders will travel in standard class accommodation for these sections of their journey. 4 nights’ bed, breakfast & Table d’hôte evening meal, 1 lunch, plus light refreshments on the Strathspey Railway Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach travel, with transfers as described All excursions and admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Hotel porterage

DAY 5 Today we bid farewell to Inverness and, if travelling by train, return over the mountains to Edinburgh and homeward stations. (B) HOTEL Palace Hotel & Spa, Inverness

*In the unlikely event of the steam train being unavailable we reserve the right to substitute a diesel train or undertake the journey by road coach.

Overlooking the River Ness, just short stroll from the city centre, this 4 star hotel has well-appointed bedrooms with hospitality tray, radio,TV and free Wi-Fi.The hotel offers a stylish bar and restaurant, relaxing lounge and superb newly refurbished leisure club with indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and gymnasium.

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Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

F loral C heshire & B eyond

Our summertime tour based in historic Chester includes visits to some of the finest gardens in Cheshire, The Wirral and the Welsh Borders. Bursting with an abundance of colourful floral displays and impressive historic houses plus, a relaxing river cruise and nostalgic steam train journey.

5 DAYS

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Guided tour of Arley Hall Garden’s dating back over 250 years ★ Cruise on the River Dee ★ Enjoy free time to explore Knutsford and Llangollen ★ Steam along the Welshpool & Llanfair Heritage Railway ★ Discover the impressive walled garden and servants’ quarters at NT Erddig House ★ Explore 64 acres bursting with floral summer displays Ness Botanic Gardens ★ Learn the fascinating story of Port Sunlight on a guided tour Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ Dinner every evening ★ Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ Hotel porterage DAY 1 We arrive in Chester where our hotel is conveniently situated opposite the railway station. In the afternoon we can take a stroll to the ancient City Walls or Roman Gardens before our first evening meal together. (D) DAY 2 After breakfast we board our coach and travel to Arley Hall Gardens where we enjoy a guided tour within the eight acres of formal gardens. The gardens are regarded as one of the finest in Europe and have been created over the past 250 years, offering an interesting blend of long history, traditional design and inspired modern ideas. Following our visit we enjoy free time for lunch in nearby historic town

DEPARTS Sunday 6 August 2023

Fares From £539

FARES

FARE REGION London: Euston Greater London South of England East Anglia South West Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales Heart of England

FIRST £819 £835 £885 £925 £879 £729 £635 £709 £799 £739 £825 £655 £835

STANDARD

£655 £675 £705 £719 £719 £635 £605 £635 £685 £629 £665 £585 £699 £549

by road to Llangollen with time to look around the beautiful riverside town and enjoy time at leisure. In the afternoon we visit the Erddig House & Gardens, an impressive National Trust property surrounded by a 13.5 acre walled garden. The garden is one of the most important surviving 18th century gardens in Britain and probably the biggest. During our visit we can also explore the hall’s servants’ quarters and gain a fascinating insight into the lives the people who worked below stairs. (B,D) DAY 4 We transfer the short distance to The Wirral, and our morning begins with a visit to Ness Botantic Gardens . We have an introductory talk on the history of 64 acres of spectacular gardens that offer lovely views over the Dee Estuary and have free time to explore the wonderful gardens bursting with life and vibrant colour. Following our visit, we continue to Port Sunlight , the village that William Hesketh Lever built for his Sunlight Soap Factory workers in 1888. Our guide explains the fascinating story of the village and we have free time to

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotels

£10 tour discount for National Trust Members Single Room Supplement £110

of Knutsford , renowned for its array of restaurants, bars, and fine food purveyors. We return to Chester in the afternoon and enjoy a 3 0 minute cruise on the River Dee followed by free time at leisure in the city’s charming streets of black-and-white houses, its Roman museum, beautiful Cathedral, and the famous Rows. (B,D)

DAY 3 Today our private coach takes us over the Welsh border to Llanfair, here we board our vintage carriages and enjoy a delightful 8-mile return steam train journey along the Banwy Valley passing through country halts and over bridges on the Welshpool & Llanfair Heritage Railway . We then continue

*Please Note: Some local and regional train services are Standard Class seating only and First Class ticket holders will travel in standard class accommodation for these sections of their journey. 4 nights’ bed, breakfast & Table d’hôte evening meal, 1 lunch, plus light refreshments on the Strathspey Railway Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach travel, with transfers as described All excursions and admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Hotel porterage

explore the many attractions including the Port Sunlight Museum and Lady Lever Art Gallery before our return to Chester by train. (B,D)

DAY 5 We bid farewell to beautiful Cheshire as we make our way homeward. (B)

HOTEL Queen Hotel, Chester

Situated directly opposite the railway station, the 4-star Queen Hotel is characterised by its elegance and Victorian heritage.The en-suite bedrooms offer modern facilities including direct-dial telephone,TV, tea/coffee making facilities and free Wi-Fi.The hotel features delightful Italian gardens, bar, and restaurant.We have booked executive bedrooms and single travellers will have a double rooms for sole occupancy.

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Visit: www.railtrail.co.uk – for full tour details and fares, and to book online or call 01538 382323 – to book or to request a detailed tour itinerary

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